I prefer "earmuff" style hearing protectors (as
opposed to earplugs) and for quite some time I have used the Caldwell Es-85 as
my primary hearing protection. These low cost (2009 MSRP $34.99), stereo
hearing protectors block out noise above 85db while offering amplification of
normal sounds and voices through built-in dual microphones that are controlled
by a single volume knob. Although inexpensive, practically any effective, amplified
hearing protector is superior to the passive type that leaves you essentially
deaf the entire time they are worn.

The drawback to most electronic hearing
protectors is their cost, which is usually in the $150-$200 range. Thus, the
affordable Caldwell Es-85 was quite a breakthrough in price. Ditto the
subsequent E-Max ($39.99), which boasts a NRR of 25 db and the E-Max Low
Profile ($44.99), both of which carry on the Caldwell tradition of reasonably
priced electronic hearing protection. All of these models remain in the
Caldwell line and can be purchased on the Caldwell web site at
www.battenfeldtechnologies.com

When I heard about Caldwell's new, upscale Platinum Series
G3 electronic hearing protector (product #864446), I requested a sample for a Guns and Shooting Online review. The new
G3 boasts several improvements compared to previous Caldwell hearing protectors. These include advanced
circuitry that allows continuous amplification while compressing and blocking
loud noises (such as gunfire). There is no "cutting out" of the
ambient sound, even at the moment a gun is fired. Independent microphones in
each earcup provide stereo sound and each side has its own volume control,
along with a red LED that glows when the unit is turned on. Each earcup holds
three AAA cells to power its amplifier and the run time is advertised as
approximately 250 hours on alkaline batteries.

A comfortable ear seal is provided by DualDensity Foam and
the adjustable headband is padded and lined with SoftFleece fabric for long-term
comfort. Indeed, I found the G3 to be very comfortable to wear; the most
comfortable ear protector I have used to date. The G3 earcups have a flatter,
less bulky profile than the Es-85 and most other ear protectors. Here is a
summary of the G3's features:

Perhaps most important from the user's point of view, the G3
is more comfortable to wear than previous Caldwell models. For one thing,
its ear recess is deeper and roomier. The G3 is slim and offers
quieter circuitry without annoying hiss or interference. The DualDensity Foam
ear seals are effective and comfortable, even when the G3 is worn continuously for long periods.

Standing directly behind a .270 Winchester rifle on the
firing line, I could notice no difference in the loudness of the shots between
my old Es-85 and the new G3, but the G3 is more comfortable to wear and its
advanced circuitry never cuts out ambient sounds. The G3's durable soft
touch finish is a high-tech flat black that is less abrasive to gunstock
finishes than earlier models.

While the G3 is roughly twice the price of previous Caldwell
units, it costs only about half as much as comparable hearing protectors from
other manufacturers. Its performance is impressive and I strongly suggest that
you try the Caldwell Platinum Series G3 before purchasing any other hearing protector.